Definition
Easy, purposeless running that doesn't improve fitness because it's too slow to build aerobic capacity but too fast to count as recovery. The cardio equivalent of empty calories.
Example Usage
Stop logging junk miles at that awkward medium pace—either run easy enough to recover or hard enough to improve.
Origin
Distance running coaching, emphasizing the polarized training approach
Fun Fact
Elite runners spend about 80% of their training volume at truly easy paces, far slower than most recreational runners' 'easy' runs.
Source: Distance running and coaching terminology
Related Terms
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See “junk miles” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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